Apollo Proposes Merger of Endemol and Core Media Group

By

Martin Peers And

John Jannarone

Updated Oct. 5, 2012 2:49 p.m. ET

If Apollo Global Management has its way, the reality TV franchises "American Idol" and "Big Brother" might soon be under one roof.

The private-equity firm, parent of "American Idol" owner Core Media Group, is proposing a merger of Core and Endemol, a Dutch production company whose shows include "Big Brother" and "Deal or No Deal," say people familiar with the situation.